Simon Kolawole is a Nigerian journalist, public speaker, and media entrepreneur. He is the founder and CEO of Cable Newspaper Limited, which publishes TheCable, Nigeria’s independent online newspaper. In 2012, he was recognized as one of the Young Global Leaders by the World Economic Forum for his professional accomplishments and commitment to society.
Personal Stats
| Full Name | Simon Kolawole |
| State of Origin | Kwara State |
| Birthplace | Ilorin, Kwara State |
| Occupation | Nigerian Journalist and Media Entrepreneur |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Alma Mater | – University of Lagos – University of Sussex – SOAS University of London |
Early Life and Education:
Simon Kolawole was born in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. After his father’s death in a road accident in 1976, he moved to Mopa, in present-day Kogi State, Nigeria, to live with his grandmother. In 1989, he relocated to Lagos to study Mass Communications at the University of Lagos. He later received a Chevening Scholarship to pursue a Master’s degree in Governance and Development at the Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex, UK. In 2010, he was selected as one of the Governance for Development Fellows at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London.
Career
Simon Kolawole’s career in journalism began with his inspiration from veteran journalist Dele Giwa, who was tragically killed in the line of duty. Before founding TheCable, he worked at various publications, including Encomium Magazine, Complete Football, Thisweek, Tempo, and This Day. He held positions such as staff writer, senior correspondent, features writer, sports editor, assistant editor, features editor, deputy editor, and editor at these publications.
In 2008, Kolawole published a comprehensive report titled “Nigeria and Other Oil-Producing Countries: A Comparative Study” in This Day. His works have been cited in academic journals and publications.
In 2012, Simon Kolawole resigned from his position as editor of This Day newspaper and was replaced by Ijeoma Nwaogwugwu. Currently, he serves as the CEO of TheCable, executive director of Cable Newspaper Journalism Foundation, and founder and CEO of Ideas Planet Ltd. He is also a board member of two non-profit organizations focused on development in Nigeria, Leap Africa, and Rise Networks.
